Fire Devastates Major Secondhand Clothing Market in Ghana
A massive fire has swept through Kantamanto Market in Accra, Ghana, one of the world’s largest secondhand clothing markets, destroying up to two-thirds of the facility. The blaze has left thousands of traders without their stalls and livelihoods, prompting calls for support from the global fashion industry.
Kantamanto Market, which processes an estimated 15 million garments weekly and employs around 30,000 people, plays a crucial role in the global secondhand clothing trade. The Ghana National Fire Service confirmed that the fire was extinguished without any reported injuries or fatalities, though investigations into the cause are still ongoing.
As cleanup efforts begin, with metal scrap dealers sifting through the rubble, advocacy groups are urging the international fashion community to assist in relief efforts. Daniel Mawuli Quist from The Or Foundation emphasized the need for tangible help to rebuild and sustain secondhand markets.
In response to the crisis, The Or Foundation has pledged $1 million towards relief efforts and established a fund to raise additional money for rebuilding and providing financial assistance to affected vendors. The nonprofit, which is involved in research, grants, and job training for Kantamanto Market workers, sees this as an opportunity to address broader issues within the fashion industry.
The fire has brought to light the challenges faced by the global fashion industry in waste management and the impact of fast fashion. An estimated 40% of garments in the market go unsold, contributing to environmental challenges in Accra and beyond.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for sustainable practices and improved waste handling within the fashion industry. As Kantamanto Market begins its long road to recovery, the global fashion community is being called upon to reassess its approach to the production, consumption, and disposal of clothing.
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